Indigenous community panels

Indigenous perspectives on the Arnhem Land Expedition were critical to an evaluation of its legacy and to this symposium. Arnhem Land communities touched by the 1948 Expedition were invited to select representatives to express their views on the Expedition and issues of concern, thus giving the symposium itself an Indigenous legacy.

The community panels each represented one of the three principal base camps of the Expedition: Groote Eylandt, Gunbalanya (Oenpelli) and Yirrkala. Representatives from Milingimbi which was visited during the Expedition on a secondary research trip, were also present at the symposium. However, these three divisions varied on the day according to community wishes and in recognition of the fluidity of the relationships people have across a number of communities.

These panels were an opportunity for Arnhem Land community members to share stories about the 1948 Expedition and to discuss contemporary issues and initiatives such as re-engagement with collections and continuing impacts on their Country. In consultation with communities, participants engaged in panels, rather than as solitary speakers. Speaking in related groups conforms to community practice, ensuring participants a degree of confidence and flexibility in unfamiliar surroundings. Symposium delegates were also able to share their own stories and ask questions of the panellists.

Map of Arnhem Land indicating the three principal Expedition base camps.

Panel 1: Expedition camp 1 – Groote Eylandt

Symposium Day 2, Wednesday 18 November, 4–5pm

Thomas Amagula, Liaison Officer, Aninidilyakwa Land Council. Thomas was part of the repatriation delegation to the Smithsonian Institution in 2008.

Jabani Lalara, senior community Elder. Jabani's father was present at the time of the 1948 Expedition.

Johnathon Wurramarrba. The remains of Johnathon's father's mother were returned from the Smithsonian Institution.

Alfred Lalara, artist and family member. Alfred is connected to the repatriated human remains.